Peri-Peri Chicken Espetada

Name: Peri-Peri Chicken Espetada
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: Serves four
Cuisine: Portuguese
Ingredients: 750 g boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1 cup peri-peri sauce; 1 tbsp olive oil; 2 tsp sugar or honey; 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; Fresh parsley for garnish

Published: June 1, 2025

by Alexia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavor-packed: The peri-peri sauce infuses the chicken with bold flavors, making each bite delicious.
Easy to prepare: With just a few steps, you can have a mouthwatering meal ready to grill.
Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive celebration, this dish fits right in.
Healthy option: Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs keeps the dish lean while still being satisfying.
Versatile serving options: Serve it on skewers or with sides like rice or salad for a complete meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to ensure a smooth experience. Having the right equipment makes all the difference when preparing Peri-Peri Chicken Espetada.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Grill
Large bowl
Blender or immersion blender
Bamboo or metal skewers
Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

Grill: A must-have for achieving the perfect char on your chicken. It enhances flavor through smoky grilling.
Blender or immersion blender: This tool ensures your marinade is perfectly smooth and well-mixed for even flavor distribution.
Tongs: Useful for flipping the chicken on the grill without losing any juices.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

750 g (1½ lbs) chicken thighs (boneless + skinless)
1 cup peri-peri sauce
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tsp sugar/honey
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Peri-Peri Chicken Espetada

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Combine the peri-peri sauce, olive oil, sugar or honey, salt, and pepper in a blender. Blend until smooth. If your peri-peri sauce is chunky, this step is essential for emulsifying the ingredients.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl. Pour over the marinade and mix well. Ensure each piece is fully coated in flavor. Cover with plastic wrap and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours in the fridge for deeper flavor.

Step 3: Prepare Skewers

Soak large bamboo skewers in boiling water for at least 30 minutes before using them. Alternatively, you can opt for metal skewers that do not require soaking.

Step 4: Assemble Skewers

Thread the marinated chicken onto your soaked skewers. Be sure not to overcrowd them; this helps with even cooking.

Step 5: Preheat Your Grill

Preheat your grill (or braai) on medium-high heat for about 5-10 minutes to ensure it’s hot enough to sear the chicken properly.

Step 6: Grill the Chicken Espetada

Place the chicken espetada on the grill. Cook each side for about 7-10 minutes until they are well-browned and cooked through. If possible, close your grill lid during cooking; this helps retain heat and speeds up cooking time.

Step 7: Rest Before Serving

Once cooked through, remove the chicken from the grill. Allow it to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This ensures juiciness when you cut into it!

How to Serve Peri-Peri Chicken Espetada

Serving Peri-Peri Chicken Espetada can elevate your dining experience, making it perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this flavorful dish.

With Fresh Salad

Mixed Greens: A simple salad of mixed greens tossed with a light vinaigrette complements the spicy flavors of the chicken.
Greek Salad: The creamy feta and crunchy cucumbers provide a refreshing contrast to the heat of the peri-peri sauce.

On a Bed of Rice

Coconut Rice: Serve the chicken over fragrant coconut rice for a tropical twist that balances the spice.
Lemon Herb Rice: A zesty lemon herb rice adds brightness and enhances the overall flavor profile.

Accompanied by Dips

Tzatziki Sauce: This yogurt-based dip cools down the spice and is perfect for dipping pieces of chicken.
Chili Garlic Sauce: For those who crave more heat, this sauce makes an exciting addition on the side.

How to Perfect Peri-Peri Chicken Espetada

To ensure your Peri-Peri Chicken Espetada comes out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

Marinate Longer: The longer you marinate, the more flavorful your chicken will be. Aim for at least 2 hours for best results.
Use a Meat Thermometer: To check doneness, use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 75°C (165°F).
Create Grill Marks: Don’t move the chicken around too much on the grill; let it sit to develop beautiful grill marks and flavor.
Rest Before Serving: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after grilling ensures juiciness and prevents dryness.

Best Side Dishes for Peri-Peri Chicken Espetada

Pairing side dishes with your Peri-Peri Chicken Espetada can enhance its flavors and provide a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options.

Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread adds crunch and pairs beautifully with juicy chicken.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring color and nutrition to your plate.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing crunch that balances out the spicy chicken.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements the smoky flavor of grilled chicken perfectly.
Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges are always a hit and can be seasoned with herbs for added flavor.
Quinoa Salad: This nutritious option is light yet filling, making it an excellent pairing with grilled meats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Peri-Peri Chicken Espetada, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Avoiding these pitfalls will ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

Not marinating long enough: Marinating the chicken for less than 30 minutes can result in less flavor. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, marinate for up to 24 hours for maximum taste.
Using dry chicken: Overcooking the chicken can lead to dryness. Keep an eye on the cooking time and use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Skipping the soaking step: Failing to soak bamboo skewers can lead to burning on the grill. Always soak them for at least 30 minutes to prevent this issue.
Choosing the wrong sauce consistency: If your peri-peri sauce is chunky, blending it is crucial for even coating. A smooth marinade ensures all pieces are adequately flavored.
Ignoring resting time: Cutting into the chicken immediately after grilling can cause juices to escape. Letting it rest for 5 minutes helps retain moisture and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Peri-Peri Chicken Espetada

Place cooked chicken in freezer-safe bags or containers.
It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to label with dates.

Reheating Peri-Peri Chicken Espetada

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes, checking frequently until warmed.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little oil. Add the chicken, cooking for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions people have about making Peri-Peri Chicken Espetada.

Can I use other parts of the chicken?

Yes, while thigh meat is recommended for its juiciness, you can also use chicken breasts or drumsticks.

How spicy is Peri-Peri Chicken Espetada?

The spice level depends on the peri-peri sauce you choose. You can adjust it by using milder sauces or adding more spices according to your preference.

Can I grill this indoors?

If you don’t have an outdoor grill, you can use a grill pan on your stovetop or an indoor electric grill.

How do I know when my chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Alternatively, check that juices run clear when pierced with a knife.

Final Thoughts

Peri-Peri Chicken Espetada is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to customize. You can adjust flavors with different marinades or add vegetables to the skewers. This recipe is perfect for gatherings and will impress your guests with its bold flavors. Give it a try and enjoy your delicious creation!

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